Focal brain stimulation is a rapid-evolving neurotechnology recognized for its high efficacy in altering brain activities and treating neurological disorders. In particular, there is a growing interest in using intracortical microstimulation (ICMS) to develop neural prosthetics and aid neurorehabilitation. However, the cellular mechanisms by which ICMS works remain largely unexplored and its stimulating protocols are often set empirically, limiting the evaluation and optimization of effective ICMS interventions.
Our research is focused on the key cellular underpinnings of how ICMS drives visual enhancement and post-stroke recovery using rodent models. This research vision is built upon our recent work combining 2-photon microscopy and electrical stimulation in the awake mouse cortex for longitudinal quantification of the ICMS effects in the local brain area. By combining this multimodal platform with pharmacological and molecular toolkits, we will elucidate the biological processes in different types of brain cells that result from acute and chronic electrical stimulation, identifying biomarkers and key players underlying ICMS-driven brain plasticity and applying the generated knowledge in a stroke model to design effective ICMS therapies for post-injury rehabilitation.
Our research is focused on the key cellular underpinnings of how ICMS drives visual enhancement and post-stroke recovery using rodent models. This research vision is built upon our recent work combining 2-photon microscopy and electrical stimulation in the awake mouse cortex for longitudinal quantification of the ICMS effects in the local brain area. By combining this multimodal platform with pharmacological and molecular toolkits, we will elucidate the biological processes in different types of brain cells that result from acute and chronic electrical stimulation, identifying biomarkers and key players underlying ICMS-driven brain plasticity and applying the generated knowledge in a stroke model to design effective ICMS therapies for post-injury rehabilitation.
